15 Fun Facts About the Fourth of July

For many, the 4th of July is an excuse to relax in the sun, toss back a few drinks, and watch fireworks with their family and friends, but the history of Independence Day is much richer and more exciting than one might believe.

Here are 15 fun facts about the U.S. birthday that might surprise family and friends.

1. We Didn't Actually Declare Independence on the 4th of July

One of the greatest misconceptions of the 4th of July lies in the name and date. It is widely believed that America declared their independence from Britain on July 4, 1776. However, the official vote actually took place two days before and the “Declaration” was published in papers on July 4.

2. The Designer of the 50-Star Flag Lived in Lancaster, Ohio

In 1958, a history teacher assigned a class assignment to redesign the national flag as both Alaska and Hawaii neared statehood.

According to his obituary, Heft was one of thousands to submit a flag design but he was the only person who actually stitched together a flag and shipped it to D.C.

Once the flag was selected, Heft's grade was rightfully changed to an A. His design became the official flag in 1960.

3. Americans Will Enjoy 150 Million Hot Dogs During the 4th

According to the National Sausage and Hot Dog Council (NHDSC), Americans are expected to eat 150 million hot dogs over the July 4th holiday. This is part of an estimated 7 billion that are expected to be eaten during the summer season from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

4. Only Two Men Signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776

According to the same article, no one knows who wrote this or when, but it was believed to have been added as a label during the years of the Revolutionary War when parchment was frequently rolled up for transport.

12. A Much Smaller Start

Although an official national census was not completed until 1790, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that there were only about 2.5 million people living in America in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was signed.

13. Wearing Old Glory Violates The U.S. Flag Code

How many of you own a flag t-shirt, beach towel, shorts, headband, or any other item that is representative of the U.S. flag? Turns out that you're in violation of the U.S. Flag Code.

The U.S. Flag Code states that you are in violation if you sell or display any “article of merchandise . . . upon which shall have been printed, painted, attached, or otherwise placed a representation of [the flag... in order to] advertise, call attention to, decorate, mark, or distinguish the article or substance on which so placed.”

That being said, in this instance, the Flag Code is not enforced or even enforceable, so don't worry - you won't get arrested by the Flag Police.